A friendly match between Metz and Fortuna Sittard at Schlossberg stadium in Forbach turned dramatic on Saturday when referee Mrs Demonceau collapsed to the ground during a heated altercation in the 40th minute. The official fell onto her back after being caught unintentionally by players during a physical confrontation, forcing medical staff to rush onto the pitch.
How the Incident Unfolded
The chaos began when a Metz player pulled the shirt of his Dutch opponent in midfield, igniting a fierce verbal exchange that quickly escalated into a tangle of bodies. Demonceau moved to separate the players but was struck by the group and fell heavily, immediately clutching her arm in pain. After remaining on the ground for several minutes, she was assisted to the touchline while medical personnel assessed her condition.
Since the referee was unable to continue, one of the assistant referees took over officiating duties for the remainder of the match. Demonceau left the pitch entirely at half-time, marking an unusual interruption in an international friendly fixture. This type of incident remains rare in professional football, though it underscores the physical risks officials face when managing contentious moments on the field.
Match Result
Metz ultimately won the contest 3-1 against the Dutch side. Fortuna Sittard equalised just before the break to level at 1-1, but goals from Gauthier Hein (a brace) and Pape Moussa Fall secured victory for the French club. The result capped a memorable but turbulent day at the Moselle venue, with the referee's injury overshadowing an otherwise competitive friendly between the two European sides.
